(MEMPHIS, Tenn. – October 31, 2025) Local African American media organization, The Tri-State Defender (TSD), has announced finalists for the 2025 Best In Black (BIB) Awards. The winners will be announced during the ceremony Thursday, November 6, 7–9 p.m. at the Central Station Hotel, 545 S Main St., Memphis, TN 38103.
The Best In Black Awards recognizes some of the most outstanding Black businesses, community organizations, entrepreneurs and individuals in the Mid-South. Click here for the full list of finalists.
“We’re excited to host the Best In Black Awards to celebrate Black excellence in our community,” said TSD Editor Stephanie Jones. “The mission of Best In Black is to celebrate Black-owned and operated businesses. We look forward to recognizing and amplifying our honorees.”
Tickets are now on sale to attend the Best In Black Awards for $75 (taxes and fees not included).
“TSD is happy to continue this awards program that recognizes Black businesses, organizations and individuals in the Mid-South,” said TSD Board of Directors President Calvin Anderson. “Congratulations to this year’s finalists. We can’t wait to recognize our phenomenal honorees and celebrate their work in the community.”
Current sponsors for the 2025 awards ceremony include:
- Comcast
- Xfinity
- Valero
- Oteka Technologies
- The Carter Malone Group
- Gipson Mechanical Contractors
- Shelby County Government
- City of Memphis
- Vintage 901
- Humana
- HTWO Hydrogen Infused Water
- Pete Mitchell Insurance
- Memphis Light, Gas & Water (MLGW)
- Regional One Health
- First Horizon
- Dr. Telisa Franklin
Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. To learn more about Best In Black Awards, to purchase a ticket or to become a sponsor, visit www.tri-statedefender.com/bestinblack.
About The Tri-State Defender:
The Tri-State Defender (TSD) is one of the longest, continuously published newspapers in the South that caters to the news and information needs of the African American community. In January 2024, TSD transitioned to a digital format to keep readers informed quickly as news hits that affect the community. First published November 1, 1951, the weekly newspaper has been an anchor element in the multi-platform delivery of news and information. TSDMemphis.com is now the primary source for news along with the TSD Daily Digital and social media platforms. To learn more about The Tri-State Defender, visit www.tri-statedefender.com.